Comparative Analysis of the Glute Ham Developer Exercise

Abstract

Introduction: GHD (Glute Ham Developer) is a recurrent exercise in training and competitions in Cross Training modalities, studies and cinematic analyzes of this movement are still little found in the literature. Objective: To analyze the kinematics of the GHD and compare the performance and angles of the hips and knees of two volunteers, one experienced and the other novice in the sport. Method: An experienced volunteer and another novice, but physically active, were selected and had their resting heart rates measured. They were invited to perform three movements on the GHD device, and these gestures were monitored and filmed by the researchers. After performing the gesture, the heart rate was measured again. The videos were analyzed using Kinovea kinematic software and the results were tabulated and compared using BioStat statistical software (p <0.05). Results: the kinematics of the GHD recommends hip flexion and hyperextension of this joint. Practitioners performed compensatory movements with the knee joint to assist with hip flexion. Exercise can offer risks of disc injuries to the intervertebral discs, due to the tension load present during and hyperextension. Conclusion: GHD is a complex movement that involves the iliopsoas muscles, erector of the spine, rectus femoris, hamstrings and rectus abdominis through variations of the joints that these muscles act. The movement must be previously taught through education and the due strengthening of the involved muscles must also occur, mainly in beginners, considering the inherent risk of injuries resulting from the movement.